What could be more in tune with the season’s delight than a dessert that perfectly intertwines the richness of cheesecake, the sweetness of strawberries, and the indulgence of chocolate? The homemade Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake Blizzard – Dairy Queen’s iconic seasonal treat, now within the cozy confines of your kitchen.
How to make Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake Blizzard
The Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake Blizzard is a limited-time offering from Dairy Queen’s Summer Blizzard Menu. This indulgent treat combines Dairy Queen’s signature vanilla soft serve with creamy cheesecake pieces, rich chocolate chunks, and a vibrant strawberry topping, creating a delightful mix of tangy, sweet, and chocolatey flavors.
Ingredients:
For the Blizzard:
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream, preferably a high-quality brand for that creamy, authentic texture.
- 1/2 cup frozen strawberries to get that icy, refreshing zing.
- 1/4 cup cheesecake pieces, which you can either make from scratch using your favorite recipe or purchase ready-made to save time.
- 1/4 cup chocolate chunks or chocolate chips for that rich, indulgent flavor contrast.
- 2 tablespoons of strawberry sauce or puree to infuse every bite with berry goodness.
For Homemade Strawberry Sauce (Optional):
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
If Making Strawberry Sauce:
- Combine the chopped strawberries and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the strawberries release their juices.
- Add lemon juice and simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in vanilla extract and allow to cool. Use a blender for a smoother sauce or leave as is for a chunkier texture.
For the Blizzard:
- In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream and frozen strawberries, blending until smooth but still thick. Avoid over-blending as the mixture should stay thick like Blizzard consistency.
- Add the cheesecake pieces and chocolate chunks, using pulse mode a few times just to mix them in without breaking them down too much.
- Drizzle the strawberry sauce or puree over the blended mixture and gently fold it in with a spoon or spatula to create a marbled effect.
- Pour the mixture into a serving cup or bowl.
Tips for the Perfect Blizzard:
- Ice Cream Consistency: For that true Blizzard texture, ensure your ice cream is not too soft. It’s best when it’s firm but not solid, as it blends into a creamy consistency without becoming runny.
- Serving Immediately: This dessert is best served immediately after preparation to maintain the perfect consistency. If it does start to melt, a quick stint in the freezer can bring it back to the right texture.
- Customize Your Creation: Feel free to experiment with the amount of strawberries, cheesecake, and chocolate chunks based on your personal preferences. Want more cheesecake? Go for it. Prefer more chocolate? Throw some extra chunks in there!
- Garnish for Glam: Elevate your Blizzard with a dollop of whipped cream and a few sliced strawberries on top. Not only does it look professional, but it adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
What to serve with
Serving the Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake Blizzard as the centerpiece of your dessert menu is sure to delight and impress. However, pairing it with other items can enhance the eating experience and cater to various taste preferences among your guests.
Drinks:
1. Coffee or Espresso: The robust, slightly bitter notes of coffee or espresso make a perfect counterbalance to the sweetness of the Blizzard. A simple espresso or a creamy latte can cleanse the palate between bites and enhance the flavors in the Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake Blizzard.
2. Sparkling Water or Seltzer: For those who prefer a non-caffeinated option, sparkling water or flavored seltzer provides a refreshing and light accompaniment that helps cleanse the palate without overpowering the dessert flavors.
Snacks:
3. Shortbread Cookies: Serve a plate of delicate shortbread cookies alongside the Blizzard. Their buttery, crumbly texture complements the creamy and rich elements of the Blizzard.
4. Fresh Fruit Platter: A platter of fresh, seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus segments can offer a fresh and light option next to the decadent Blizzard. These can add a refreshing zing and make the dessert feel less heavy.
Sweet Accompaniments:
5. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Double down on the theme and serve chocolate-dipped strawberries. Not only do they echo the flavors found in the Blizzard, but they also add an elegant touch to your dessert presentation.
6. Mini Cheesecakes: Offer mini cheesecakes as another nod to the cheesecake pieces in the Blizzard. These can be a hit for those who can’t get enough of the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients Substitutes
Creating a homemade version of the Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake Blizzard allows for a personalized touch and adjustments based on dietary restrictions, ingredient availability, or personal taste preferences.
1. Ice Cream Base:
- Traditional Option: Rich vanilla ice cream serves as the base. For a lower-calorie or dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut milk ice cream, almond milk ice cream, or even banana-based “ice cream.”
- For Vegans, Opt for vegan vanilla ice cream, available in most health food sections. Look for brands that use cashew or coconut bases for the creamiest texture.
2. Strawberries:
- Fresh Strawberries: Ideally, you should use fresh strawberries for their natural sweetness and vibrant color. However, frozen strawberries can be a great alternative if they’re out of season. Just make sure to thaw and drain them properly to avoid adding too much water to the Blizzard.
- Preserves or Jam: In a pinch, strawberry preserves or jam can stand in for fresh strawberries. They’re sweeter and have a more concentrated flavor, so you may want to adjust the quantity used.
3. Cheesecake Pieces:
- Store-Bought Cheesecake: If you don’t have time to make a cheesecake from scratch, store-bought cheesecake pieces are a convenient substitute. For a lighter version, look for a low-fat or no-bake cheesecake alternative.
- Vegan or Dairy-Free Cheesecake: Many recipes for vegan cheesecake use soaked cashews, coconut cream, and agar agar to mimic the creamy texture of traditional cheesecake. Vegan cream cheese is also an option, mixed with a bit of sweetener and lemon juice and frozen into small pieces before adding to the Blizzard.
4. Chocolate Coating for Strawberries:
- Milk Chocolate: Traditionally, milk chocolate is used for a creamy and sweet coating. For a darker, less sweet option, use semi-sweet or dark chocolate. This can also be more appealing to adult tastes.
- Vegan Chocolate: There are many vegan chocolates available that melt beautifully and coat strawberries well. Alternatively, making your chocolate sauce with cocoa powder, coconut oil, and maple syrup can be a healthier, dairy-free option that still provides that chocolatey touch.
5. Graham Cracker Crumbles:
- Store-Bought Crumbles: Convenient and ready to use, store-bought graham cracker crumbles can be used. For a gluten-free alternative, there are many gluten-free graham crackers that can be crushed into crumbles.
- Homemade or Alternative Crumbles: You can pulse graham crackers in a food processor for a homemade option. If you want something different, try using digestive biscuits or crushed vanilla wafers for a unique twist.
6. Sweetener:
- Sugar: If the recipe calls for sugar, and you’re looking for substitutes, consider using honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar for a more natural sweetness. Be mindful of liquid sweeteners if the consistency of the Blizzard is crucial; they might alter it slightly.
Final Thoughts
Creating your own Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake Blizzard is a delightful endeavor that satisfies your cravings and adds a personal touch to every spoonful.
More Diary Queen Recipes:

Ingredients
For the Blizzard:
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 cup frozen strawberries
- 1/4 cup cheesecake pieces
- 1/4 cup chocolate chunks
- 2 tablespoons of strawberry sauce
For Homemade Strawberry Sauce (Optional):
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
If Making Strawberry Sauce:
- Combine the chopped strawberries and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the strawberries release their juices.
- Add lemon juice and simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in vanilla extract and allow to cool. Use a blender for a smoother sauce or leave as is for a chunkier texture.
For the Blizzard:
- In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream and frozen strawberries, blending until smooth but still thick. Avoid over-blending as the mixture should stay thick like Blizzard consistency.
- Add the cheesecake pieces and chocolate chunks, using pulse mode a few times just to mix them in without breaking them down too much.
- Drizzle the strawberry sauce or puree over the blended mixture and gently fold it in with a spoon or spatula to create a marbled effect.
- Pour the mixture into a serving cup or bowl.